The Henry III golden coin discovered in England.
The incredible find is a singlegold pennyminted by King Henry III and dating to the 13th century.
The unnamed discoverer had only recently begun his metal detecting quest after many years in abeyance.
The Henry III golden coin discovered in England. (Photo:Spink & Son)
He posted his find on Facebook, but did not yet appreciate its impressive historical significance.
Henry III reigned for an impressive 56 years.
During this period he strengthened and centralized royal authority while also waging war abroad.
Both sides of the stunning coin, which dates to around 1257. (Photo:Spink & Son)
According to Edmund, during the king’s 13th century rule, coinage was shifting from silver to gold.
Lands in the Middle East predominantly had gold coins, while England and the rest of Europe used silver.
At this time [in the 13th century] you see a huge crossover.
The coronation of King Henry III. (Photo:Wikimedia Commons, Public domain)
So you start getting gold coins in the West, and silver coins in the East at this point.
Gold coins had not been minted in England since the Norman Conquest.
Markings on the coin indicate the hand of Willem FitzOtto of Gloucester, The King’s Goldsmith.
Flowers and a cross adorn the flip-side of the coin.
Beyond its shimmering beauty, the coin’s excellent condition and rarity make it remarkable.
Meanwhile, the well-preserved relic has advanced the knowledge of medieval numismatics.
An English amateur metal detectorist discovered a medieval gold coin dating to the reign of Henry III.
Both sides of the stunning coin, which dates to around 1257.
The coronation of King Henry III.
